Engineer or Engineering Technologist (Assc-Prin) Distribution Dispatch Center

aep; Gahanna (OH); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

American Electric Power in Ohio seeks an entry-level DDC Engineer to perform intermediate engineering work applying theory to load studies and the commissioning of Smart Grid equipment. You will work under the assigned manager to safely and efficiently accomplish objectives, with opportunities for growth within the DDC Engineering group.

You will conduct load studies, analyze data to mitigate risks, commission DA, VVO, and ADMS technologies, and provide technical support during commissioning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
• Entry level position suitable for new graduates.

Responsibilities

• Load studies for planned and emergency work to assess capacity and safe switching.
• Analyze data to recommend solutions that minimize risks to facilities and the public.
• Commission distribution equipment and ensure it meets operational standards before use by system operators.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting during commissioning and operations.

Skills

Load studies

Data analysis

Commissioning

Technical support

Problem solving

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

ABET-accredited engineering program

Job description

Job Posting End Date

09-24-2026 Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

Responsible to the assigned manager for performing intermediate level engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.

Job Description

The DDC (distribution dispatch center) Engineer position is responsible for conducting load studies and commissioning Smart Grid equipment such as Distribution Automation (DA), Volt/VAR Optimization (VVO), and Advanced Distribution Management Systems (ADMS).

What You'll Do:

Key Responsibilities for this position include but not limited to.

• Load Studies: Conduct thorough load studies for planned and emergency work to assess capacity and ensure safe switching operations.
• Analyze data to recommend solutions that minimize risks to facilities and the public.
• Commissioning distribution Equipment: Perform commissioning of modern grid technologies prior to their use by system operators, ensuring all equipment meets operational standards.
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting during the commissioning process.

Technical Support:

Serve as a technical resource for system operators, offering guidance on new technologies and distribution system operations. Stay updated with the latest advancements in power distribution and their implications for operations.

Availability:

At times DDC engineers will need to respond to urgent requests from DDC operators for load studies and commissioning needs outside of normal business hours. Collaborate with field employees to address any issues that may arise during operations.

Technical Expertise:

Possesses intermediate level knowledge and performs varied assignments with proficiency in the application of theory and analytical techniques to solve diverse problems and complete extensive analysis. Demonstrates competency in analytical techniques necessary to handle assignments of moderate complexity. (e.g., by dividing the problem into component steps, and performing the analysis necessary to complete each step). Exhibits ability to understand interrelationship between systems and component equipment. Demonstrate ability to analyze and recommend enhancements to business processes.

Leadership & Guidance:

Coordinates work activities of others within the work group, department, or other corporate entity as necessary to complete routine activities. Performs routine engineering activity with minimum direction from higher-level employees. Follows policies, practices, standards and rules of the company and those regulations and procedures required by external agencies. Provides training and guidance to lower-level employees.

Planning & Organization Ability:

Coordinates the development of input necessary to forecast costs for the routine projects, improvements requisitions, etc. Uses scheduling techniques (CPM, PERT, flow charts, etc.) for budget and planning activities. Initiates corrective action when project objectives are not being met.

Problem Solving & Initiative:

Resolves and initiates solutions to routine problems which usually require additional definition/clarification before analysis can begin. Demonstrates ability to identify problems that are beyond the normal routine. Demonstrates ability and desire to seek out opportunities and embrace new ideas and approaches.

Communication:

Develops, reviews, or presents technical reports such as improvement requisitions, studies, and analyses in as clear, concise and effective fashion.

Interpersonal Skills:

Is an active team member. Networks with peers inside and outside the AEP system. Identifies key stakeholders. Uses informal network to get things done. Resolves conflict, builds consensus.

Decision Making:

Makes decisions subject to review within established policies and procedures. Makes decisions that affect the work of the team. Aware of risks. Demonstrates the ability to extrapolate beyond known facts to reach logical conclusions.

Business Awareness & Characteristics:

Understands AEP's organizational structure and the specific role and responsibility of their individual organizational unit. Demonstrates an understanding of the budgeting and approval process. Is proficient in the application and use of economic analysis techniques in problem solving. Develops an understanding of utility regulation and financing.

Note:

This position is posted at multiple grade levels and offers a range of opportunity for advancement. The minimal qualifications outlined below apply to the Engineer or Engineering Technologist Associate Level, with increased educational, skill, experience and certification requirements for higher level Engineer or Engineering Technologists.

What We're Looking For:

This is an entry level position for new graduates with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET*; Passing the Fundamentals of Engineeri